Do you have the ability to create happiness? How many of you believe that our emotions are beyond our control, kind of like we are passive recipients of our emotional state?
Especially during crazy, busy times like holiday shopping or during cryptocurrency swings, one may wonder if it is possible to maintain control of our emotions!
While acknowledging that the full range of emotions, including sadness, hurt and despair contribute to a well rounded and balanced life, I believe that it is possible to not only change our emotional state, but to also 'prime' our thoughts to make a positive emotional state or happiness more likely.
Drawing on the work of Barbara Fredrickson PhD, researcher and author in the area of 'Positive Psychology', doing three small things daily can have an impact:
Remembering and savouring a positive social interaction, perhaps with a family member, friend or even your local barista.
Feeling gratitude for something or someone in your life.
Taking a few minutes to sit in mindful meditation each day.
In total, these three things could take as little as ten minutes a day, yet the impact would be mighty.
So, yes, cultivate happiness and enjoy the bounty that will flow your way.